How will Nemanja Matic fit in at Manchester United?

Throughout Manchester United's previous season and more specifically pre-season, the need to sign a defensive midfielder has been evident. Teams like LA Galaxy, Real Salt Lake and Barcelona have exploited the same. The lack of a mobile astute defensive midfielder has resulted in teams being able to directly run at Manchester United's defence, a tactic, teams could and will exploit in the coming season.

Hence, United's interest in Nemanja Matic. Jose Mourinho wanted to bring in his former midfielder and forked out £50 million for him. Mourinho resigned him for Chelsea back in 2014, and since then, he's led them to two Premier League titles in the space of three seasons.

Moreover, the arrival of Tiemoue Bakayoko, and his exclusion from the pre season squad marked the end of his Chelsea stay.

Chelsea v Sunderland - Premier League

Matic is Mourinho's third summer signing following the arrivals of Victor Lindelof and Romelu Lukaku. But how will he fit in at Old Trafford?

The players at risk?

With the excessive amount of injuries and games last season, it was hard to determine Mourinho's preferred starting XI. However, the Europa League final came close to what we could expect. His three-man midfield for the win over Ajax consisted of Ander Herrera, Paul Pogba and Marouane Fellaini.

Herrera was outstanding last season, with performances of the highest calibre as he deservedly picked up the club's Player of the Year prize. He was a vital cog of the United midfield, playing a number of roles for the benefit of the team.

On the other hand, Mourinho has often praised and backed world record signing Paul Pogba, who should have a stellar of a season ahead of him. One of United's "World Class" players, lots can be expected from him next season, especially after an impressive pre season.

Manchester United v Chelsea - Premier League

That brings into question Marouane Fellaini's role. Whilst the Belgian is not moving away anytime soon going by Mourinho's words, Matic is seen as a long-term replacement for 35-year-old skipper Michael Carrick, who will be used sparingly next term.

As effective as Carrick?

Touted as Carrick's long term replacement, Matic has huge boots to fill. Having recently been offered a 12-month contract, Carrick's days at Old Trafford seem to be numbered. That day would mark an end to a historic and hugely successful career.

Matic, similar to Carrick is very calm and composed on the ball. Similar to Carrick, he has the ability to spray passes around, and link up well with the forwards, reminiscent of Carrick's younger days.

What would be an upgrade on Carrick as of now, would be his ability to notch up the assists and work rate. Having assisted more than any Manchester United player last season playing as a defensive midfielder is quite the achievement in itself for the Serb.

A further upgrade would be that deadly left foot, and his knack for scoring the spectacular, something you don't see Carrick try very often. Hence, in the words of legendary Manchester United defender Gary Neville, "So you're talking about there needing to be a replacement for them [Carrick] and ultimately Matic would fit the bill."

Protection in Europe

Manchester United are set to challenge for European glory - this time in the UEFA Champions League

United return to the Champions league this season, full of intent and hopeful of stamping their authority. With the prospect of facing the very best, Mourinho is known to close the flood gates and cease opposition attacks.

With Matic added to that midfield, Mourinho has at his disposal, further protection. Matic's talents are second to none, being one of the more underrated players in the league. He's likely to be asked to sit deep while his midfield partners will be allowed to link up further ahead with United's frightening attacking trio.

The perfect foil to Pogba

Now for the most important, unleashing the beast that is Paul Labile Pogba. Matic's arrival will, in theory, unshackle the Frenchman from the defensive burden he had to endure last season. The Serbian International has a good touch, an impressive range of passing and a ferocious shot.

These qualities would help push midfield terrier, Ander Herrera, further forward when needed. Furthermore, having an anchor like him ahead of the back four should improve a defence which performed well last season, and with Pogba allowed to roam further ahead, attack too.

Will Matic bring out the best of Pogba? If I were him, I'd be celebrating the most.

Potential partnership with Michael Carrick

Can Carrick deliver more with Matic alongside him?

At United, a partnership of Michael Carrick and Matic doesn't scream pace, but it does exude poise, and one can imagine Mourinho deploying the pair together in tougher assignments.

Since the beginning of his career, Mourinho's default setting has been about control and having two calm, composed and solid members of his XI acting as a screen, allowing the likes of Pogba to inflict damage further ahead could be a legitimate and sensible option

Possible Manchester United first choice XI

Potential First choice XI

Mourinho may face a selection headache, as he's spoilt for choice. United boast an impressive bench strength as portrayed last season. The arrival of Ivan Peresic could further enhance the squad strength, making United title contenders for next season.